Why are you proud of Lancaster?

A lot of work must be done to ensure Lancaster survives and thrives in the future. Although that task seems daunting at times, it can be done if we start with pride in our community.

There is plenty of which to be proud. Look at our city's history: We claim a Civil War general, U.S. senators, Ohio Supreme Court justices and various national cabinet members. Our city was carved out of a wilderness by settlers determined to see it survive, and is more than 200 years old - older than Ohio itself.

We have one of the state's finest arts festivals. We have a beautiful downtown, nice enough to rival any Ohio town our size. We have glass works made here that are distributed all around the country.

Of course, Lancaster has its warts, many of which are caused by drug issues. Our streets need work. We have funding problems, like most other communities in the state. But those should be seen as challenges, not death knells.

Various community leaders are looking at ways to improve Lancaster. Earlier this week, some played host to a revitalization expert from Michigan State University, who noted people in the community have to value its success to make it happen. He's absolutely right.

Think about this: What makes you proud of Lancaster? If your first thought is "nothing," please give it another chance. Why are you proud to live here?

Some won't have any trouble answering that question; we hope all of you can think of a few good reasons to be proud of our city. And when you do, ask yourself: What can you do to make other people proud of our city?

That's what it's all about. We can't wait for someone to swoop in and save us from our ills; we have to do it ourselves. City residents have shown throughout the years they are willing to do that.

Finally, ask yourself this: Where do we start? Don't worry about the finish. For now, let's get started, and see where the momentum takes us.

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Why are you proud of Lancaster?

A lot of work must be done to ensure Lancaster survives and thrives in the future. Although that task seems daunting at times, it can be done if we start with pride in our community.